I call her Love.

Lila,

Happy 1st Birthday sweet girl! A year ago, I was meeting for the first time what is now so familiar to me. You are exactly what I've always hoped for. How did I get so lucky? How did I ever live without your love, your hugs, and your smiles? I can't picture my life now, without you.

I love everything about you, right down to your little stinky feet. I love the way you chant my name in the morning "La-ra, La-ra, La-ra" awaiting your bottle. I love your smile. I love your beautiful green eyes on some days and your big blue eyes on others. You lucked out in the eye department. I love your two tiny teeth. I love that you will eat anything I put in front of you, and yet you remain my petite princess. I hope that follows you throughout life. I love how much you love pancakes. You can eat 2-3 in one sitting. I love that you will eat Cheerio's and not spill a single one, but when you eat cookies they get everywhere. I love that you always eat the green goldfish first, but then eat the rest in no order at all. Your daddy says it's because you're half Irish. I think it's because you're just that smart.

You love to dance. You get completely serious and wave your hands to the beat. Both your dad and I hope you'll have more rhythm than we do. I love when you reach up for me. I love that when I pick you up and we're finally hugging, you pat my back and rest your head on my chest. It's my favorite thing about you. I can feel all of your love in just one hug. I love the way you study my face, and everything I do. I can just look at your eyes and know you're learning something. You love to watch me cook. You sit in your chair and call out for me so you can have a taste. Your auntie Adri will be glad to know you have a passion for food. I love the kisses you blow to me when you're in daddy's arms. I love how much we love you.

This has been the first of so many amazing years ahead. I can't picture myself loving you more than I already do, but somehow, each day I do. Although I will forever miss the days when we first brought you home, the nights you would fall asleep on my chest so comfortably, and the way I could just swaddle you in my arms and feel complete, I look forward to the rest of our days together. I love you Lila. Happy birthday.
They call her love, love, love, love, love.
They call her love, love, love, love, love.
She is love, and she is all I need.
She's all I need.

(Turn on your speakers!)